Man kicked his partner’s head “like football”

A MAN who kicked his partner’s head like “a football” and stamped on her has been spared an immediate prison sentence.

Paul Gary Carruthers, 38, was seen to attack Lisa Newton on a residential Maryport road as she lay on the ground in a “foetal position”. He had “filled himself” with drink and drugs in the hours before the incident near his home at Grasslot in March, Carlisle Crown Court heard.

Carruthers lashed out angrily after his window was smashed by Miss Newton, who suffered a serious arm injury in the process. Police investigating the assault noted she had clear bruising to an eye which had begun to close.

Carruthers – a man with an “excellent” work record and references – was remorseful and “ashamed”.

A nine-month jail term was suspended for 12 months by Recorder Simon Medland QC.

Carruthers was ordered to attend a “building better relationships” course, complete a rehabilitation requirement and carry out 150 hours’ unpaid work. He must also pay a £200 fine, and £300 compensation to his victim.